On the opening day of the Capital of Culture program in Chemnitz, hundreds of people took part in various demonstrations. The far-right Free Saxons had mobilized for a demonstration against Chemnitz as Capital of Culture. The German Trade Union Confederation called for a counter-protest and a rally against right-wing extremism.
Police spokesman Andrzej Rydzik initially put the number of participants at "several hundred on both sides". More precise figures could only be given later.
The police secured the gatherings and the entire opening day with a large contingent. According to Rydzik, a total of well over 1,000 officers were deployed in Chemnitz.
In the afternoon, the official ceremony to mark the opening of the Capital of Culture year took place. Among others, Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier was expected to attend.
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